HomeExclusiveFrom Innovation to Collapse: Author Prarthana Badiger’s JUNKCODE Explores Tech Consequences

From Innovation to Collapse: Author Prarthana Badiger’s JUNKCODE Explores Tech Consequences

When a team of brilliant scientists discovers a way to transform plastic waste into a powerful magnetic material, they believe they have solved two global crises at once. But their breakthrough takes a dark turn.

The experiment gives rise to JUNKCODE—a sentient, self-replicating entity that feeds on plastic to multiply and expand. What begins as a scientific triumph soon spirals into an environmental catastrophe, as cities collapse under the weight of their own innovation.

In a desperate attempt to contain the chaos, the scientists must rely on an unexpected group of heroes—garbage collectors—who stand at the frontlines of humanity’s fight for survival.

JUNKCODE: Consumed by Creation is a gripping science fiction thriller that explores innovation, responsibility, and the unintended consequences of human ambition.

What inspired you to write this particular book, and how did the idea for the story come to you?

While stuck in Bangalore’s traffic, my thoughts wandered. I noticed a plastic cover being swept by the wind, chasing a speeding car. In that fleeting moment, I wondered—what if it had a life of its own?

Can you share some insights into your writing process? Do you follow a specific routine or have any unique rituals that help you get into the creative flow?

Creativity often arrives when least expected. Whenever an idea strikes, I capture it in notes—sometimes only I can understand them. On weekends, I take time to revisit those fragments and shape them into something meaningful.

The characters in your book are quite distinct and memorable. Are they based on real people, or did they evolve purely from your imagination?

My characters are entirely imagined. When naming them, I follow a deliberate process—many names have Sanskrit meanings that reflect their role and essence in the story.

Your book delves into the consequences of resource overuse and the mounting burden of waste. What motivated you to explore this theme, and what do you hope readers take away from it?

Surrounded by constant innovation, we often become blinded by complexity. Yet, simple problems rarely need grand solutions—they require clarity. I hope readers reflect on that.

The world-building in your novel is rich and immersive. Did you draw inspiration from real-world locations or events?

Not particularly. I’m simply a Marvel fan who loves to imagine possibilities and push creative boundaries.

As a writer, how do you balance originality with genre expectations? Were there challenges in adding your unique voice?

Since it’s fiction, I allow myself complete freedom—embracing the impossible and letting imagination take over.

The pacing keeps readers engaged throughout. How did you maintain tension and momentum in the story?

Interestingly, I didn’t know the climax when I started writing. I discovered it along the way, and that uncertainty helped me sustain tension naturally.

In an age of rapidly changing media and reader preferences, how do you see traditional storytelling evolving?

I believe there will always be readers who love classic storytelling. At the same time, I’ve blended in modern elements of innovation to keep contemporary audiences engaged.

If you’re drawn to science fiction thrillers, eco-sci-fi, tech horror, and stories about environmental catastrophe and ethical science, JUNKCODE: Consumed by Creation is a must-read.

Step into a world where innovation turns against its creators—and humanity must confront the consequences of its own progress.

Are we solving the problem… or becoming it?

Grab your copy of JUNKCODE: Consumed by Creation and experience a gripping tale of survival, responsibility, and the battle between humans and their own creation.

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